His history
The history of the Louis Vuitton Foundation dates back to the artistic and cultural passion of Bernard Arnault, CEO of the LVMH group (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton), one of the world leaders in luxury. Arnault had long had the ambition of creating a space dedicated to contemporary art which would be at the same time a place of exhibition, creation and education. We advise you, like us, to put aside a certain number of prejudices and explore this quite unique place of its kind!
To realize this vision, Bernard Arnault called on American-Canadian architect Frank Gehry, renowned for his innovative approach and his emblematic achievements. The Louis Vuitton Foundation architectural project was announced in 2001, and construction began in 2008 in the Bois de Boulogne, Paris.
The building was completed in 2014 and was officially opened in October of the same year in a prestigious ceremony. The Louis Vuitton Foundation quickly became aarchitectural icon internationally renowned, attracting the attention of art lovers and visitors from all over the world.
The creation of the Louis Vuitton Foundation responded to Bernard Arnault's desire to support and promote contemporary art in all its forms. The aim of the Foundation is to serve as a platform for artists, to stimulate creativity, to promote artistic exchanges and to offer the public unique cultural experiences.
Current exhibitions
A rich cultural program
The Foundation offers a variety of educational programs and interactive activities that aim to enrich visitors' experience and promote their understanding ofcontemporary art.
Guided tours are offered to visitors, allowing them to explore the exhibitions in the company of experienced guides. These guides, with in-depth knowledge of the art and artists on display, offer informed commentary and additional perspectives on the works, allowing visitors to better understand the historical and artistic contexts.
The Backgroundation Louis Vuitton also organizes conferences anddebates led by renowned experts in the field of contemporary art. These events allow visitors to deepen their knowledge and participate in stimulating discussions on relevant topics related to art, aesthetics and contemporary culture.
Of theartistic workshops and practical activities are also offered to visitors of all ages. These workshops allow participants to explore their creativity and actively engage in the artistic process. They are designed in a fun and educational way, thus encouraging individual expression and artistic discovery.
The Louis Vuitton Foundation also pays particular attention toyoung audiences. Specific programs are set up for schools and families, offering tours and activities suitable for different age levels. These initiatives aim to raise awareness among children and young people about contemporary art, to develop their critical sense and creativity, and to encourage an open and curious approach to art.
Additionally, the Louis Vuitton Foundation offers artistic film screenings, live performances and special events showcasing different forms of artistic expression. These events help to broaden visitors' cultural horizons and immerse them in varied and stimulating artistic experiences.
The architecture of the Louis Vuitton Foundation
Let’s talk about it of course! How can we not be intrigued by this spooky building that looks like a ship or a UFO?
Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, this Foundation is considered a technical and artistic feat.
The building is distinguished by its complex structure made up of harmoniously intersecting glass sails. These sails are made of laminated glass, which gives them exceptional transparency and luminosity. The flowing, curved lines create a captivating visual movement, giving the impression that the building is in perpetual transformation.
The organic shape of the Fondation Louis Vuitton is reminiscent of a boat sail or a moving cloud. The use of glass and steel gives the whole thing a visual lightness, as if the building were floating in space. This feeling of lightness is reinforced by the absence of visible columns inside, which creates an impression of open and free space.
The glass sails are supported by a complex metal structure, composed of beams and curved columns. These structural elements, designed with precision, help maintain the balance and stability of the whole, while giving the impression of remarkable fluidity and elegance.
The play of light is an essential aspect of the architecture of the Louis Vuitton Foundation. The transparent glass allows natural light to penetrate the interior of the building, creating a bright and changing ambiance throughout the day. The reflections on the glass surfaces give the building a shimmering quality, enhancing the magical effect of the architecture.
When we enter, it is clear that the magic is happening…
The interior of the Fondation Louis Vuitton is designed to provide a versatile and adaptable space to host exhibitions and artistic events. The exhibition rooms are large and flexible, allowing works of art to find their place in an ideal environment. The materials used, such as light wood and raw concrete, create a warm and contemporary atmosphere, highlighting the works on display.
Finally, thepanoramic roof terraceof the Louis Vuitton Foundation offers a breathtaking view of Paris and its surroundings. It constitutes alounge and contemplation, where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding architecture while relaxing.